What Does the Bible Say About Doctrine? With Scripture References

doctrine.png

Lord’s Library editors answer the question “What does the Bible say about doctrine?” with specific Bible references.

Have you ever asked yourself the question “What does the Bible say about doctrine?” If you have, you’re definitely not alone! And since the Bible helps Christians form a foundational understanding of important topics, it’s imperative that one know how Scripture describes doctrine in different contexts. The Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines doctrine as “In a general sense, whatever is taught. Hence, a principle or position in any science; whatever is laid down as true by an instructor or master. The doctrines of the gospel are the principles or truths taught by Christ and his apostles.”

Now armed with a basic doctrine definition, Lord’s Library editors thought it would be a helpful exercise to provide Biblical context. As a result, we compiled this short resource which captures all notable mentions of the word doctrine, as well as its other forms. If you’ve been wondering what the King James Bible says about doctrine, scroll on for additional detail.

Note: If you want to know what the Bible says about doctrine and 206 other important topics (to be exact), our editors recommend Spencer Smith’s Doctrine Matters: Bible Topic Guidebook.

The Gospel

What Does the Bible Say About Doctrine?


2 John 1:9

“Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.”

1 Timothy 4:13

“Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.”

proverbs 4:2

“For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.”

Titus 2:1-2

“But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.”

Job 11:4

“For thou hast said, My doctrine is pure, and I am clean in thine eyes.”

John 7:16

“Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.”

2 Timothy 3:10-11

“But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.”

Titus 2:7-8

“In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.”

2 Timothy 4:2

“Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.”

1 Timothy 5:17

“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.”


Lord's Library participates in affiliate programs. We may make a small commission from products purchased through this resource.
Timothy Andrew
Follow Tim
Timothy Andrew

Timothy Andrew

Tim is the Founder of Lord's Library. He believes the Bible commands us to minister "as of the ability which God giveth" (1 Peter 4:11). Tim aspires to be as The Lord's mouth by "taking forth the precious from the vile" (Jeremiah 15:19) and witnessing The Gospel of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15: 1-4) to the whole world.

scroll to top